How to Identify Symptoms of Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis (TB) is a disorder of the lungs that causes chronic (ongoing) bacterial infection in the lungs. It is caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium tuberculosis, germs that are transmitted through the air and from one person to another. The lungs are affected, and sometimes, the bacteria spreads to other organs and may lead to contracting meningitis as well. Any age group may contract tuberculosis, especially adults over 60 years of age. Risks also increase in those suffering from chronic illnesses that affect the immune system. Tuberculosis is a preventable condition, through vaccine.While fairly common in other countries, the United States has seen a steady decrease of cases, though travelers and those who live in less than favorable or crowded conditions are advised to receive vaccinations. Learning to identify symptoms of tuberculosis may help prevent complications such as COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), infection in other body organs and sometimes, even death.
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Instructions
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Watch for flu-like symptoms, especially while traveling to other countries. TB may initially present without symptoms until it reaches the middle stage, but always pay attention to changes in the body or how you feel in order to catch problems before they become more severe.
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Pay attention to any unexplained weight loss that results regardless of adequate diet and nutrition. This weight loss may also be accompanied by a general feeling of fatigue or lethargy that is difficult to shake.
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Observe your urine for discolored (reddish) or cloudy urine, as this is a symptom that presents in later stages of the condition.
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Coughing is prevalent in later stages of tuberculosis as well. Such coughing may produce a thick gray or yellow sputum that may be streaked with or tinged with blood.
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Pay special attention to any pain in the chest or lungs, which may lead to shortness of breath. This shortness of breath may lead to dizziness or cause many individuals to feel lightheaded.
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Tips & Warnings
Never try to self-diagnose. If you experience more than two symptoms at the same time, or just don't feel well for more than a few days at a time, schedule a visit with your doctor so that he or she may perform a tuberculin skin test.
Don't wait for abnormal symptoms or conditions to get worse before you schedule a visit with your physician. Left untreated, tuberculosis may prove fatal, and you may spread it to other family members, friends, or the general public.
